Steam Frame: Everything We Know

Valve dropped the Index back in 2019, and since then, they’ve been quietly working on what looks like their next big thing: the Steam Frame. Initially, there were only a few hints online, but more pieces appeared over time. As a result, forums buzzed, fans debated, and theories sprang up everywhere, making the project feel more real with each passing week. Honestly, every tiny detail seems to spark another round of guesses. Gamers can’t help but wonder what Valve is actually working on, and it’s easy to see why curiosity is running high. While no one knows exactly how the Steam Frame will fit into the gaming world yet, it’s gradually starting to feel like something worth watching. Here’s what we’ve picked up so far.

What Is Steam Frame?

The Steam Frame is Valve’s latest attempt to shake up VR, and it’s already getting a lot of attention. Unlike most headsets that need a PC to run, this one can handle some games on its own thanks to built-in processing. Furthermore, it can stream your entire Steam library wirelessly, which means you can play your PC games without being stuck at your desk. In other words, it gives you the freedom to move around and play however you want.

What’s cool is that it’s trying to hit a sweet spot between power and portability. Whether you dive into a serious VR session or just pick it up for some casual play, it adapts either way. Meanwhile, with leaks and hints surfacing all the time, it’s clear Valve wants this to be more than just another headset; it’s a fresh take on how we game. Unsurprisingly, gamers are definitely watching closely, and honestly, it’s hard not to get excited about what comes next.

Features

Streaming

The Steam Frame is all about streaming-first gaming, which basically means you can play your PC games wirelessly over a dedicated Wi-Fi connection. So instead of being stuck at your desk, you can wander around a bit, grab a snack, or chill on the couch while dipping into your complete Steam library. It’s just way more flexible than traditional setups.

Standalone Capabilities

The headset can also run games on its own. Thanks to built-in processing, some VR and non-VR titles can run natively without a PC. Which is perfect if you want to game anywhere, whether it’s a quick session in your living room or a longer grind in your bedroom.

Onboard Hardware

Under the hood, there’s a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 ARM64 chip running a version of SteamOS. Together, they give the headset enough power to handle both VR and regular PC games smoothly. No lag, no fuss, just play.

PC Gaming Support

The Steam Frame is designed for more than just VR. Actually, you can play your entire Steam library on a virtual screen, so the Steam Frame basically doubles as a portable PC gaming setup. It’s like having your PC in a headset.

Controllers

The included controllers are super versatile. They’ve got magnetic thumbsticks, haptic feedback, capacitive finger sensing, and even a D-pad, so whether you’re playing VR or traditional PC games, they feel right at home.

Storage Expansion

Storage isn’t a problem either. You can pop in a micro SD card and suddenly have space for all your games, mods, and whatever else you want to carry around.

Wireless Adapter

Finally, it comes with a wireless adapter that hooks up to your PC at high speed. This keeps latency low, so everything feels smooth and responsive, with no annoying lag that breaks immersion.

Controller Features

Tracking

The Steam Frame controllers track your every move thanks to full 6-DOF, which means everything you do in VR feels natural. In addition, the capacitive finger sensing is a nice touch; it actually knows what your fingers are doing, so grabbing, pointing, or gesturing feels way more realistic.

Input

They’re built for both VR and regular PC games. You get magnetic thumbsticks for precise control, along with all the usual buttons: D-pad, triggers, bumpers, and face buttons. That way, whether you’re swinging swords in VR or blasting through a classic PC shooter game, the controls just work.

Power

No one wants to stop mid-game because of dead batteries. Luckily, these use replaceable AA batteries, and as a result, you get around 40 hours of playtime, so marathon sessions are totally doable.

Haptics

Additionally, the haptic feedback feature is included as well. Basically, every hit, rumble, or explosion actually feels like it’s happening in your hands, which makes games feel way more alive.

Trailer

The trailer kicks off by introducing Valve’s newest toys: the Steam Machine, the refreshed Steam Controller, and, of course, the Steam Frame. Thereafter, it zooms in on the headset itself, showing off a sleek, comfy design that doesn’t look bulky or intimidating. From there, it’s all about versatility. The Steam Frame is made for both VR and regular PC games; not only can you stream your full Steam library, but you can also run certain games natively. Additionally, it teases streaming, which sharpens the graphics exactly where you’re looking, while at the same time keeping everything smooth and efficient.

Meanwhile, Valve shows off a plug-and-play wireless adapter for super-low-latency streaming. By the end of the trailer, it’s clear Valve wants a comfy and wireless headset. It’s flexible enough for any gaming session. So whether you’re leaning back or diving in, this thing has you covered.

Price and Release Date

The Steam Frame is coming in the first quarter of 2026, which means sometime between January and March. However, Valve has not yet confirmed an exact release date. It will be sold through Steam in supported regions, and some third-party retailers may carry it elsewhere. So if you can order a Steam Deck, you’ll probably be able to get a Steam Frame too. Valve plans to expand availability over time.

Valve hasn’t shared any details about the price yet. However, with onboard processing, the Steam Frame could be pricier than the original Index. On the other hand, some cost-saving choices, like LCD screens instead of OLED or monochrome cameras, might keep it more affordable. Either way, we’ll have to wait for Valve to confirm the final price.